In preparing a cutting we are guided in a certain measure by the fact that roots form with greatest facility from joints or buds. It is true that a callus will form on the cut surface, although the cutting is deprived of all buds but those intended for upward growth, and roots will frequently protrude from all parts of the inserted stem, but the accumulation of tissue will increase with greater rapidity when the section is made immediately below a bud. In cutting the section, great care is requisite that the part is not bruised, which tends to decay; cutting with scissors should therefore be avoided; a smooth, clean cut with a sharp knife is best.

The necessity of retaining leaves on cuttings depends upon their maturity; if soft and slightly charged with organizable matter, the leaves continue to perform their functions and assist growth. It would be difficult to define the quantity of leaves that ought to be retained, and although there is no doubt that they facilitate the formation of roots, yet they involve a more skillful management of the agents of vegetation during that process.

With plants that root slowly the cutting may undergo a preparation before removal from the parent stem. This is effected by ringing the shoot at the intended point of separation, a callus will form round the upper edge of the ring, from which roots will emit when the cutting is removed and inserted in the soil.

(To be continued)